Mekong giant catfish facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mekong giant catfish |
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The Mekong giant catfish (Pangasianodon gigas) is a very rare type of catfish. It belongs to the shark catfish family. This amazing fish is one of the biggest freshwater fish in the world!
It naturally lives only in the lower part of the Mekong River in Southeast Asia. This means it is endemic to that area. Sadly, this giant fish is now critically endangered. This means it is very close to disappearing forever.
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Why is the Mekong Giant Catfish Endangered?
The main reasons this fish is in danger are:
- Overfishing: Too many of these fish have been caught by people.
- Habitat loss: The places where they live, like rivers and lakes, are being damaged or changed.
Today, you can mostly find these fish in Tonlé Sap lake and the Tonle Sap river. Scientists are still trying to figure out if all the fish in these areas are part of one big group or two separate ones.
What is its Family?
The Mekong giant catfish is closely related to another fish called the Iridescent shark. The Iridescent shark is also known as Pangasius. Both are part of the same fish family.
Raising Them in Farms
Sometimes, Mekong giant catfish are raised in special fish farms. This is called aquaculture. It helps to make sure there are still some of these fish around.
Images for kids
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Depiction of a mature Mekong giant catfish from the Illustrated collection of fishes from Asia, Africa and Australia
See also
In Spanish: Pez gato del Mekong para niños
